SISKIYOU COUNTY – The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has cited five individuals in separate incidents for unlawful possession and use of suction dredge equipment in state waterways, in violation of Fish and Game Code (FGC) section 5653(e). Suction dredging is harmful to native fish and wildlife habitat, making it difficult for native species to thrive and creating favorable conditions for invasive species.
On Aug. 20, 2024, CDFW officers cited one individual after discovering he was actively operating a suction dredge on the Salmon River near Cecilville. The person admitted to using the dredge to recover gold and other minerals and provided paperwork showing a partnership related to the activity. Officers issued a citation in the field and seized the mechanized portion of his dredge. As a reminder, possession of a vacuum or suction dredge in areas in or within 100 yards of waters that are closed to the use of vacuum or suction dredges remains illegal in California. No partnership, membership or business relationship provides an exemption from this prohibition.
